Eleven (or so) questions for local artist Anthony Smyers

In 50 words or less, what do you do as an artist?
As an artist I try to convey the things around me like the environment and people into something that makes sense. A lot of what I do is an outlet for me to make sense of the things happening in my life– relationships, emotions, etc.
In one word, describe what your life would be like if, for some reason, you couldn’t create art.
Nuclear
Is there a particular kind of art or an artist whom you don’t particularly like?
I appreciate art as a whole, but if I had to choose a style of art that I’m not a huge fan of, it’s abstract. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve seen some pieces that I think are great, but it’s just not my favorite.

Does anything cause you to have artist’s block?
I’m not sure I can say that things cause me to “have” artist’s block as so much that it just happens. Things like my job that pays my bills can be a drain sometimes on my creativity. Sometimes you’re in a rut, but I have to take the time to look at other art out there in the world to get my juices flowing.

“The Mariner,” archival ink and digital painting

How would you characterize the role of art in modern society?
Art in modern society is still thriving and evolving. I love all the different styles and mediums that exist and how technology and digital is a platform that has become just as commonplace as traditional mediums.

Describe what the scene is like when you are creating your art.
It usually involves me at home or at a coffee shop and music. Music is always the constant. I have to be listening to something, and a lot of the times I think that helps give me ideas as well.

How does your artistic sensibility or skills help you in your daily life?
It helps me view things in a more abstract way. You can observe things around you and look at them in a different light. For example, I got an idea for a little creature wearing an ornate helmet from a huge pinecone I found. Kooky stuff.

As an artist, have you had any experiences with censorship? (If so, how did you react? If not, how do you think you would react?)
Personally, as an artist, I haven’t experienced censorship yet (knock on wood). How I would react I guess really depends [on] to what level I was being censored. When you create something it’s meant as you intended, not with pieces taken out or missing. Honestly I would be upset but hopefully I won’t have to deal with that anytime soon.
Have you ever found a piece of art offensive?
Art offensive? Nope. I’m sure I can say one or two pieces I’ve done could have offended someone, but that’s the point, I think. Art is meant to elicit a reaction, good, bad or indifferent.

“Midnight Singer,” archival ink and digital painting

What are your ultimate goals as an artist?
My ultimate goal is to get to a point where I could sustain myself creating what I love and give up my day job. I live for being creative and have been trying hard over the last year to put myself out there. I’m making strides in the right direction, that’s for sure.
What color excites you?
Blues and anything bright. I LOVE bright color, and I have a hard time washing colors out. Tough problem, I know.